Monterey city leaders are debating whether to ask voters to approve a one cent sales tax increase this November in an effort to help the city generate more funds for infrastructure improvements.City leaders said streets, sidewalks storm drains and ADA upgrades are long overdue. The last time city streets were upgraded was back in 1994.VIDEO: Monterey sales tax increase debatedThe Special Transaction and Use Tax would be used solely for street infrastructure repairs and has a four year sunset date. The proposed tax would increase Monterey's rate from seven point five cents per dollar to eight point five cents.City Councilman Frank Sollecito said the decision should be put to the voters."We will find a way to fix our infrastructure and balance our budget. The end result might be bleak. It might mean cutting services, cutting people, it could effect the quality of life in an adverse way. That's why I think it's up to the people," Sollecito said.The tax needs a 2/3 majority to pass and will take effect immediately if it does, allowing the city of Monterey to generate $8 million in additional revenue annually. That's about $32 million in four years.The City Council will decide whether or not the proposed sales tax will make it on the November ballot during tomorrow night's council meeting.

MONTEREY, Calif. —

Monterey city leaders are debating whether to ask voters to approve a one cent sales tax increase this November in an effort to help the city generate more funds for infrastructure improvements.

City leaders said streets, sidewalks storm drains and ADA upgrades are long overdue. The last time city streets were upgraded was back in 1994.

The Special Transaction and Use Tax would be used solely for street infrastructure repairs and has a four year sunset date. The proposed tax would increase Monterey's rate from seven point five cents per dollar to eight point five cents.

City Councilman Frank Sollecito said the decision should be put to the voters.

"We will find a way to fix our infrastructure and balance our budget. The end result might be bleak. It might mean cutting services, cutting people, it could effect the quality of life in an adverse way. That's why I think it's up to the people," Sollecito said.

The tax needs a 2/3 majority to pass and will take effect immediately if it does, allowing the city of Monterey to generate $8 million in additional revenue annually. That's about $32 million in four years.

The City Council will decide whether or not the proposed sales tax will make it on the November ballot during tomorrow night's council meeting.